Materials & Care

 

Dialekt works with a limited selection of materials chosen for their structural integrity, surface honesty, and ability to age with use. No coatings are applied to hide behaviour. No finishes are used to freeze time.

This guide outlines how our materials respond to use—and how to care for them without interfering with their natural lifecycle.

 

Aluminium

Dialekt aluminium components are used in a raw, untreated state. The surface is neither painted nor lacquered.

Material behaviour

  • High structural strength with low weight
  • Naturally corrosion-resistant
  • Will develop fine scratches and tonal variation through handling
  • Surface appearance changes with light, touch, and time

These marks are expected and form part of the object’s visual depth.

Care

  • Clean with a soft, dry cloth
  • Use a lightly damp cloth for heavier dirt
  • Dry immediately after cleaning

Avoid

  • Abrasive pads or powders
  • Acidic or alkaline cleaners
  • Polishing compounds or steel wool

No maintenance is required. The surface is allowed to evolve.

 

Oiled Wood

Oiled wood is finished to protect the material while preserving tactility and grain definition. The oil penetrates the surface without sealing it.

Material behaviour

  • Warm surface with visible grain structure
  • Sensitive to liquids and grease
  • Will patinate gradually with exposure to light and use

Grain variation, tone shifts, and minor irregularities are inherent to natural wood.

Care

  • Dust regularly with a dry cloth
  • Wipe spills immediately
  • Dry the surface after cleaning
  • Maintain stable indoor humidity when possible

Maintenance

  • Re-oil when the surface appears dry or uneven

  • Typically 1–2 times per year, depending on use

Use a neutral oil intended for the specific wood and oil previously used. Apply sparingly and remove excess. Reach out to the Customer Care team for more information.

Avoid

  • Standing water
  • Harsh household cleaners
  • Direct heat on the surface

 

Wood (General / No surface treatment)

Some Dialekt products use wood with minimal or no surface treatment. This allows the material to respond freely to its environment.

Material behaviour

  • Changes in colour over time
  • Increased sensitivity to moisture and friction
  • Surface marks occur more easily than on treated wood

These changes are not defects but part of the material’s lifespan.

Care

  • Clean with a dry or lightly damp cloth
  • Avoid excessive moisture
  • Maintain stable indoor humidity when possible

Long-term

  • Light sanding can refresh the surface
  • Optional oiling may be added later for increased protection

 

 

Ageing & Use

Dialekt objects are not designed to remain visually static. Patina, surface marks, and tonal shifts are a result of use—not wear in the conventional sense. Care is about maintaining function while allowing time to remain visible.